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Kymythy Schultze has been a trailblazer in the field of animal nutrition for over a decade. She is editor of theHolistic Dog and Cat Newsletter and author of Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats: The Ultimate Diet.

If you are blessed with the friendship of an animal companion, then you know about the special bond that can form between species. And as we share our lives and our love with them, we often share our food with them, too. Fresh, whole food is rich in the nutrients that we and our animal companions need to enjoy healthy lives. And raw food contains many more important nutrients than cooked food.

To get the most flavor and nutrients from your food, you’ll want to purchase it organically grown whenever possible. If you can’t buy organic, don’t let that deter you from eating fresh, whole foods. Choose fruits and veggies that are ripe and in season—and find fresh, locally grown produce whenever possible.

This is a delicious autumn soup. This winter squash is an excellent source of antioxidants, including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin—compounds that help fight the damaging effect of free radicals that can cause heart disease and cancer. Pumpkin also contains minerals such as potassium, copper, manganese, iron, magnesium and phosphorus; vitamins A, C, B and E; and enzymes. It’s often used as a digestive aid for nausea and diarrhea.

Choose a pumpkin that’s firm and heavy for its size. The skin should be free of blemishes, and some of its stem should remain on the squash; store in a dark place and refrigerate only after cutting its skin.

Ingredients

2 cups pumpkin, peeled and diced

1 1/2 cups apple juice

1 cup carrot juice

1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon fresh ginger

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

Place all ingredients in a food processor or blender and puree. Pour into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pumpkin seeds. Makes about 4 cups.

From The Natural Nutrition No-Cook Book, by Kymythy R. Schultze (Hay House, 2005); used with permission of the publisher.